Though she's closely related to her English Springer cousin, the Welsh Springer Spaniel is her own dog. (As far as breeds go, anyway. Wales as a country is more complicated.) That gorgeous white and red coat, a slightly smaller frame, and a tad more chill personality set this breed apart from English Springer Spaniels. The Welshie, as she's known to her fans, is an all-terrain, all-weather canine. She's kind of the Ford F-150 of dogs.
Originally from Wales, this medium-sized and medium-energy breed can grow to between 35-55 pounds and lives an average of 12-15 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Sporting group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Hunting |
| Origin | Wales |
| Breed group | Sporting |
| Average lifespan | 12-14 years |
| Size | Large |
| Bark factor | Moderate |
| AKC Ranking | 116 |
| Family | Gundog, spaniel |
| Date of origin | 1700s |
| Original function | Bird flushing and retrieving |
| Today's function | Bird flushing and retrieving |
| Average size of male | Height: 17-18 Weight: 35-50 |
| Average size of female | Height: 17-18 Weight: 35-50 |
| Other name | None |
| Energy level | Medium energy |
| Exercise needs | Medium |
| Playfullness | Moderately playful |
| Affection level | Moderately affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Very friendly |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Shy |
| Ease of training | Moderately easy to train |
| Watchdog ability | High |
| Protection ability | Not very protective |
| Grooming needs | Moderately maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | Medium tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Medium tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A WELSH SPRINGER SPANIEL'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
Welsh Springer Spaniels are exactly the kind of dog you want to come home to after you've had a bad day. They're upbeat, cheerful, and family-oriented — the best part of their day is you walking through the door. They get along well with kids and are well-suited to playing with little ones: they're small enough not to accidentally squash a toddler, but sturdy enough not to get squashed, either. That said, it's always best to supervise play between any and all canine and human kids. Welshies can be a bit reserved with strangers.
WHAT IS WELSH SPRINGER SPANIEL BEHAVIOR LIKE?
Welsh Springer Spaniels are curious and busy dogs. This is a very active breed who loves being outdoors — and especially in the water. Her feet are slightly webbed; her coat is waterproof, thornproof, and weatherproof. Their endurance, drive, and brilliant noses make them powerful and formidable hunting dogs. Welsh Springer Spaniels make eager retrievers and water dogs.
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A WELSH SPRINGER SPANIEL?
Though she can be a wee bit stubborn, all this dog wants is to make you happy. Welsh Springer Spaniels are very biddable dogs. How well she behaves around the house is going to be a direct reflection of whether she's gotten enough exercise that day. If she's run and played enough, your Welshie will be a pleasant and even-tempered housemate. Be patient and consistent while training this furry, feathered friend. Reward good behaviors with treats and praise.
Keep in mind that your Welsh Springer Spaniel comes from generations of hunting stock. She'll never lose the urge to chase birds. Off-leash play outside a well-fenced, traffic-free area is not advisable.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO WELSH SPRINGER SPANIELS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
This breed has a feathered, flat coat with distinctive red and white coloring. Welsh Springer Spaniels are seasonal shedders who require occasional grooming. Plan to brush your Welshie at least once a week to prevent mats and tangles. Bathe as needed.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO WELSH SPRINGER SPANIELS HAVE?
As a breed, Welsh Springer Spaniels are generally healthy. Some are susceptible to elbow and hip dysplasia, eye disease, or autoimmune disorders.
